What: Public hearing on the “Oklahoma State Plan for Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation”

When: Today - Friday, March 29

Time/Location: From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Oklahoma Army National Guard Regional Training Institute Auditorium, Room 103, located at 6500 N. Kelley Ave.

Featuring: Dr. Les Beitsch, Commissioner of Health, and members of the Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee

Background: The Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Act, adopted by the Oklahoma Legislature in 2001, called for a 20-member Advisory Committee to develop a comprehensive plan to reduce tobacco use in Oklahoma. After review of the scientific data, the Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee has developed a plan with program and policy recommendations for state leaders. These proposals include curbing youth access to tobacco, permitting local communities to enact stronger tobacco control ordinances than state law if they choose, and protecting the public from the adverse health outcomes of secondhand smoke. The Oklahoma City public hearing is one of five public hearings being held around the state for comment on the plan’s recommendations.